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Do you keep blaming your hectic life for not keeping up with the news?Do you wish there was a voice in your head telling you about what's going on in the city so you don't feel left out in a group?Listen to The Bengaluru Commute Podcast for news specific to Namma Bengaluru! Listen during your commute to and from work, listen anywhere, at any time. Transcript:Welcome to The Bengaluru Commute Podcast, your only companion on the streets of Bengaluru. Bengaluru Local news1. Let's begin with updates from the city. Australia's PM Anthony Albanese revealed plans to establish an Australian Consulate-General in Bengaluru, aiming to foster connections between Australian businesses and India's thriving digital and innovation ecosystem. During a joint press conference with PM Narendra Modi, who is on a state visit, Albanese stated that this new presence in Bengaluru would mark Australia's fifth diplomatic establishment in India.2. In other headlines, Karnataka Deputy CM DK Shivakumar vowed to end moral policing and saffronisation in the state, emphasizing the need for a cordial atmosphere and no harassment of people. He expressed a commitment to providing a corruption-free government. During a meeting with police officials, Shivakumar and CM Siddaramaiah instructed them to take stringent action against hooligans disrupting societal harmony.3. In some more news, Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah reported that 52 individuals have lost their lives in the state due to the intense pre-monsoon rains. He mentioned that ₹5 lakh has already been granted to the families of the deceased. The CM also noted the loss of 331 livestock and reported crop damage spanning 20,000 hectares of land.4. Up next, Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah and Deputy CM DK Shivakumar will depart for New Delhi this evening. Their visit aims to meet with the Congress high command, discussing cabinet expansion and portfolio allocation to current Ministers. Siddaramaiah's official schedule indicates a departure by a special flight with an overnight stay in the national capital. While specific details of the visit remain undisclosed, party sources suggest discussions with Congress leadership on portfolio allocation and cabinet expansion are anticipated.5. Now, onto other news, Siddalingappa K Poojari, the son of a bus driver, has secured the 589th rank in the UPSC exams, among 25 successful candidates from Karnataka. Hailing from Annigeri town near Dharwad, Siddalingappa overcame a humble background and studied in Kannada medium. His mother, Shantavva, expressed surprise and pride in his achievement, mentioning that they had not provided any assistance. Siddalingappa, who holds a BE degree in Electronics, currently works at a private company in Bengaluru.6. Moving on, The KR Circle underpass, where a tragic incident claimed a 22-year-old's life, will undergo a transformation. The Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike has planned the installation of CCTVs, the construction of ramps, and the implementation of new drainage systems. The report emphasizes the need for humps at the entry and exit points to prevent water flow into the underpass. Additionally, CCTVs, a vertical clearance gauge beam, and a boom barrier will be installed. These improvements will be implemented within 15 days.7. Meanwhile, Hoteliers are facing challenges in providing change to customers due to an influx of Rs 2,000 notes. The Bruhat Bengaluru Hotels Association President highlighted a shift in customer behaviour towards cash payments. Food delivery firms in the city reported a significant proportion of 'cash on delivery orders being paid in Rs 2,000 notes. Traders expressed concerns as people attempted to dispose of these notes following the RBI's recent withdrawal announcement. Despite being legal tender, traders are struggling to handle the situation.8. On a different note, To address rain-related disasters in Bengaluru, the BBMP will establish temporary monsoon control rooms across the city. To provide timely assistance during heavy rains, these control rooms will be operational by June 1. BBMP plans to set up 63 temporary monsoon control rooms at the sub-divisional level, each costing approximately Rs 1.25 lakh. Equipped to handle emergencies, these control rooms will be managed by an Assistant Executive Engineer to ensure effective response and support. National News1. Moving on to the national news. The government announced its intent to address high-risk and fake artificial intelligence through the upcoming Digital India Act. Union Minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar clarified that rather than regulating AI, the act will establish guardrails to mitigate risks. Chandrasekhar confirmed that the DIA will encompass provisions to tackle threats associated with high-risk AI, while also promoting startup innovations. The act aims to strike a balance between fostering innovation and safeguarding against potential risks.2. Meanwhile, The AAP, TMC, and CPI have announced their boycott of the upcoming inauguration ceremony of the new Parliament building on May 28. The AAP stated that their decision was influenced by concerns regarding the exclusion of the President of India from the event. Derek O'Brien from the TMC criticized the ceremony, stating that it appeared self-centred and individualistic. Consequently, these parties will abstain from attending the ceremony.3. In more news, Congress leader, Rahul Gandhi has filed a court application in Delhi requesting a no objection certificate (NOC) for obtaining a new ordinary passport for his upcoming visit to the US. After his disqualification as a Lok Sabha MP, Gandhi surrendered his diplomatic passport earlier this year. The application has been submitted in relation to the National Herald case.4. Shifting our focus, In response to the recent outbreak of violence in Manipur, authorities dispatched an additional 600 Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel from five companies to the state. Imphal witnessed closed businesses and advisories for people to remain indoors as a precautionary measure following the torching of two houses by a violent mob. International News1. Turning our attention to international news, A 19-year-old Indian-origin man identified as Sai Varshith Kandula was apprehended by the police for intentionally driving a truck into security barriers close to the White House. During the investigation, Kandula revealed his motive to "reach the White House and seize power." When questioned about his plan, he disturbingly stated that he would be willing to "assassinate President Joe Biden if necessary."2. In ongoing news, Shireen Mazari, a former minister and trusted associate of ex-Pakistan PM Imran Khan, announced her resignation from the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party and retired from active politics. Her decision came after facing repeated arrests since May 12. Mazari condemned the actions of Khan's supporters, who attacked and set fire to defence installations on May 9 following his arrest. Aged 72, Mazari served as the Minister for Human Rights from 2018 to 2022.3. In a recent development, The UK government has unveiled measures to limit the ability of certain international students to bring their families to the country, intending to reduce annual net migration. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has pledged to reduce legal migration, and the government aims to prevent individuals from using student visas as a means to seek employment in Britain, according to the Interior Ministry.4. In some positive news, Councillor Sameer Pandey has achieved a historic milestone as the first-ever Indian-origin Lord Mayor in Australia. He has been elected as the Lord Mayor of the City of Parramatta Council in Sydney. Pandey, who owns a small business, previously served as a council member and became Parramatta's first Deputy Lord Mayor from the Indian subcontinent in 2022. Business News1. Let's now look at some business stories. On the 18th anniversary of its commencement of operations, airliner SpiceJet experienced a decline of 13.93% in its shares. The shares closed at ₹24.16 per share, reaching a 52-week low of ₹22.56 per share intraday on the BSE. The airline's shares have been on a downward trajectory since its competitor Go First filed for insolvency in early May, resulting in a continuous decline since May 16.2. In more business news, Effective from June 1, the cost of electric two-wheelers is anticipated to rise as the government has reduced subsidies under the FAME 2 scheme. The subsidy for electric two-wheelers has been decreased to ₹10,000/kWh from the current ₹15,000/kWh. Additionally, the maximum subsidy cap has been lowered from 40% to 15% of the ex-factory pricing for eligible vehicles.3. Moving on, Reports indicate that staff at Amazon's Seattle headquarters have announced a large-scale walkout planned for the upcoming week. The walkout is a response to recent layoffs and the company's return-to-office policy. An employee expressed concerns about low morale, citing a lack of clarity and uncertainty from leadership, making it a disconcerting period to be employed at Amazon.4. GQG Partners, which invested ₹15,446 crores in Adani Group companies in March, has garnered a remarkable profit of ₹7,683 crore within 100 days. As of May 23rd, GQG's investments in Adani Enterprises, Green Energy, Ports and SEZ, and Transmission now stand at a valuation of ₹23,129 crore. This represents a 50% increase from their initial investment.5. In market news for May 24th, The benchmark indices continued to decline, reaching the day's lowest point, with the Nifty falling below 18,300. The Sensex experienced a decrease of 234.86 points or 0.38% at 61,746.93, while the Nifty dropped by 70.80 points or 0.39% to reach 18,277.20. Among the total shares traded, approximately 1498 shares advanced, 1707 shares declined, and 117 shares remained unchanged. The Indian Rupee strengthened due to a weakened Dollar and increased FII inflows. But, the Rupee's gains were limited by a decline in domestic markets. Entertainment News1. Over to news from the entertainment world. Actress Kangana Ranaut criticized the ban on 'The Kerala Story' as "unconstitutional" since it had been cleared by the CBFC. She expressed that prohibiting a film approved by the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) amounts to 'insulting' the constitution and it is 'not correct'. Ranaut stated that the ban imposed on the film by certain states, including West Bengal, is unjustified.2. In news from the Cannes Film Festival, Hollywood star Jennifer Lawrence made a fashion statement by pairing slippers with her elegant red gown from Dior Haute Couture at the prestigious red carpet event. Her unconventional choice garnered attention on social media, with fans applauding her sensible decision. One fan highlighted the potential harm caused by high-heeled shoes, appreciating Lawrence's consideration for foot health.3. Meanwhile, Actor Vijay Varma discussed his role in his latest web show 'Dahaad', stating that it posed a significant challenge as he portrayed a serial killer for the first time. To grasp the intricacies of his character, he sought the assistance of a psychologist. Vijay embraced the role as a personal challenge and dove deep to deliver a compelling performance. Sports News1. In sports news, Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton, of Mercedes F1, is said to be contemplating an offer to join Ferrari starting in 2024. According to reports, Ferrari is preparing a £40 million deal to enlist Hamilton as Charles Leclerc's teammate, potentially replacing Carlos Sainz. Hamilton's performance has faced challenges, with his last victory dating back to 2021, and the emergence of George Russell poses a potential threat to his position, as per the report.2. In some uplifting news, In IPL 2023 Qualifier 1 at Chepauk Stadium, four-time champions Chennai emerged victorious with a 15-run win over defending champions Gujarat. This marks Chennai's first-ever victory against Gujarat in the IPL. Additionally, Chennai has become the first team to secure a spot in 10 IPL finals. Gujarat will now compete against the winner of the Eliminator match between Mumbai and Lucknow in Qualifier 2 on Friday, 26th May.3. Wrapping up sports news, Spanish police arrested four individuals about an incident that took place in January, where an effigy depicting Brazilian footballer Vinicius Jr was hung from a bridge near Real Madrid's training ground. These arrests occurred shortly after Luis Rubiales, the chief of the Royal Spanish Football Federation, acknowledged the existence of a racism problem in Spanish soccer, prompted by a complaint filed by Real Madrid regarding racially motivated crimes. Bengaluru BuzzSwitching gears to local events. There are many events ongoing and upcoming in Bengaluru this week. 1. Visit the Indian Music Experience Museum at JP Nagar for an immersive musical gala, happening till the 28th of May at 11.00 am. 2. Catch ace comedian Abhishek Walia in his latest India Tour, Live at the Vapour Pub & Brewery, Indira Nagar happening on the 28th of May at 5.00 pm.3. But wait, there's more. Enjoy a night of Karaoke with friends and family, at the Marco Polo Cafe, Koramangala 5th Block, happening on the 26th & 27th of May, at 10.00 pm.4. Join a painting class in an exclusive Acrylic Painting Workshop happening at Lahe Lahe on the 28th of May, at 11.00 am.5. You can also catch the Comedy Nights special at Just BLR, Brigade Road, on the 29th of May, at 7.00 pm and 9.00 pm. Bengaluru Weather1. And finally, the weather in Bengaluru. On the evening of May 24th, the city will see a temperature drop to 23°C and it is expected to rain late evening. The weather on the morning of May 25th in Bengaluru will be very hot with temperatures reaching an estimated 33°C. During the evening and nighttime, the temperatures will again drop to 22°C. That’s all for now on The Bengaluru Commute Podcast for today. I’m Anupama. If you enjoyed this episode, please do follow me on your favourite podcast and player, and leave a rating and a review as well. It helps other listeners to discover the show, and I would just really appreciate it. Even better if you know someone who would enjoy the podcast, share it with them. Make your commute truly extraordinary. The Bengaluru Commute podcast skill is now available on Alexa! All you have to do is to download the skill from your Alexa app and look for the Bengaluru commute podcast.Subscribe to The Bengaluru Commute Podcast wherever you listen to podcasts. Credits:Produced by SpoolerProducer: Anupama RajarathnamAudio producer: Caanu ZazaVoiceover: Anupama RajarathnamScript: Prathiksha Nehru